Travel Advisory
Please check your government's official travel advisory before departure. Situations can change rapidly.
Safety Level
Official risk level and travel advisories
Kenya is a popular East African destination for safaris and beaches. Take normal precautions in cities and check current government advice for border and coastal regions.
- Overall risk
- Moderate; safe for organised tourism with sensible precautions
- Main concern
- Petty theft in cities and localised advisories near some borders
- Emergency number
- 999 or 112 (police, ambulance, fire)
- Most visits to Nairobi, the coast and safari parks are trouble-free. Stay alert in crowded urban areas, use licensed tour operators for safaris, and review the latest official travel advice before visiting border regions such as areas near Somalia.
Danger Zones & Areas to Avoid
Regions with poor security or restricted access
Governments advise extra caution near the Somalia border, some coastal border areas and parts of Nairobi at night. Main tourist areas are generally visited without incident.
- Border areas
- Extra caution near the Somalia border and remote northeast
- Cities at night
- Some Nairobi districts warrant care after dark
- Check advisories
- Review current official guidance before travel
- Popular safari parks, Nairobi city centre and the main coastal resorts are typically visited safely. Take extra care in some outer Nairobi neighbourhoods at night and consult the latest government advice for border and remote northeastern regions before travelling there.
Natural Disaster Risks
Earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and other hazards
Kenya lies on the equator but is mostly temperate on its highland plateau. Prepare for heavy rains in the long (March-May) and short (October-December) rainy seasons.
- Long rains
- March to May; possible flooding and disrupted roads
- Short rains
- October to December; localised heavy showers
- Terrain
- Savannah, the Rift Valley and Mount Kenya
- Despite the equatorial location, highland areas including Nairobi are mild. Seasonal rains can cause flooding and affect road travel and some safari routes; drought can occur in arid northern regions. Check forecasts and road conditions when travelling in the rainy seasons.
Health & Disease Risks
Endemic diseases and hygiene concerns
Malaria is present in many areas and yellow fever vaccination may be required. Drink bottled or treated water; private hospitals in Nairobi offer good care.
- Malaria
- Risk in coastal and lowland areas; take prophylaxis and precautions
- Vaccinations
- Check yellow fever and routine vaccines before travel
- Water
- Drink bottled or purified water
- Seek travel health advice well before departure about malaria prophylaxis and recommended vaccinations. A yellow fever certificate may be required depending on your itinerary. Private hospitals in Nairobi and Mombasa provide good standards; comprehensive medical insurance is strongly recommended.
Crime & Scam Trends
Common crimes and scams targeting tourists
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in Nairobi, Mombasa and busy tourist spots. Be alert with valuables and avoid displaying cash or expensive items.
- Main risk
- Pickpocketing, bag snatching and mugging in cities
- Hotspots
- Markets, bus stations, crowded streets, beaches
- Advice
- Use hotel safes and prearranged transport
- Keep valuables out of sight, avoid walking alone at night and use reputable taxis or ride apps. Be wary of distraction tactics and unsolicited offers of help. For safaris and tours, book through licensed operators.
Political Situation & Protests
Political instability and potential demonstrations
Kenya is a functioning democracy. Demonstrations can occur, especially in Nairobi, and may turn disruptive; avoid political gatherings.
- Government
- Presidential republic with regular elections
- Demonstrations
- Occur periodically and can disrupt travel
- Advice
- Avoid protests and monitor local news
- Political demonstrations and strikes can happen, particularly around election periods, and can lead to road closures and disruption. Avoid crowds and protests, follow local media, and comply with instructions from authorities.
Local Laws & Prohibitions
Important local laws and penalties for travelers
Respect local customs. Photographing government buildings is restricted, drug penalties are severe, and dress modestly at the coast and religious sites.
- Photography
- Do not photograph government or military sites
- Drugs
- Severe penalties for possession and trafficking
- Dress
- Modest dress advised at the coast and religious sites
- Kenya is a diverse, multi-faith society. Coastal areas such as Mombasa have a strong Muslim culture where conservative dress is appropriate. Carry ID, avoid photographing officials or sensitive sites, and note that a plastic bag ban is enforced. Same-sex relationships are criminalised, so exercise discretion.
Emergency Contacts
Police, ambulance, and fire department numbers
Dial 999 or 112 for police, ambulance and fire. A tourist hotline also assists visitors.
- All emergencies
- 999 or 112
- Tourist assistance
- Tourist hotline available
- Country code
- +254
- 999 and 112 reach police, ambulance and fire services. Response times can vary, so keep your hotel, tour operator and embassy contacts handy. A tourist hotline can help with visitor issues.
Embassy & Consulate Info
Location and contact details of your embassy
No embassy or consulate information is available for your selected nationality in this country.
Travel Insurance
Recommended coverage and tips for choosing a policy
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, including medical treatment, emergency evacuation and safari activities.
- Essential
- Medical cover and emergency medical evacuation
- Activities
- Ensure safaris and adventure activities are covered
- Documents
- Carry policy details and emergency numbers
- Private treatment can be costly and remote areas may require air evacuation. Ensure your policy covers medical care, repatriation, and any planned activities such as safaris, diving or trekking. Keep insurer emergency contacts accessible.